its too hard to see the quality of dell online... but which model do you recommend? and i wonder can i install win7 on v13? i dont want to bother with ubuntu because my mom will bug me for whole time...

on all these laptops, the video will be more than enough for what your mom is doing. its not like you'll be able to play crysis, but it'll do youtube and internets stuff quite handily. The Vostro also does come with win7 on more expensive models.

Yes you can choose Win7 as an option as said. As for which model... it might come down to this. Do you need an optical drive? If yes the 1320 is the way to go. If no than the V13 gets my vote as it is so damn gorgeous. ;-)

That CPU is very low power and it's GMA 4500 graphics. Personally I am not a big fan of Acer. If that's the way you want to go I would have to say...

If you want a 13", I know you said you are not particularly fond of Dell but their Vostro Small Biz line are actually great machines. The V13 is gorgeous in every way and is in your price range. And the Vostro 1320 is available with more power and an optical drive.

Oh sorry. I didn't realize when someone asks for a recommendation they actually mean pure tech specs on paper or best bang for buck on paper vs your personal opinion and recommendation based on your personal experience, tastes and knowledge. I'll try to remember that next time, thanks.

You're welcome to talk him into an Acer I don't really give a crap what he chooses. I just offer my 2 cents.

yes, i know about win7 model... i just can install on ubuntu with my win7 ultimate... just save money and do major tweaks... why spend on expensive model? ;p

synth, yes i notice... anyhow yesterday i read reviews about those models at "notebook check" site... i think to get acer because of battery life; 7 hours compare to dell's 3 hours due to fixed battery adapter... for preformance... both is okay...